NJLA Announces 12 Libraries to Participate in the Access Navigator Program

NJLA Announces 12 Libraries to Participate in the Access Navigator Program

October 22, 2021
The New Jersey Library Association is pleased to announce that 12 public libraries have been selected to participate in its Access Navigators Program. The 12 libraries cover nine counties around New Jersey. The libraries were selected, following a rigorous application process.

Congratulations to the following Access Navigator Libraries:

  • Butler Public Library
  • Elizabeth Public Library
  • Keyport Public Library
  • Long Branch Free Public Library
  • Montclair Public Library
  • North Bergen Free Public Library
  • Pennsauken Free Public Library
  • Princeton Public Library
  • Wanaque Public Library
  • Warren County Library
  • West Deptford Free Public Library
  • Wharton Public Library

About the Program

The Access Navigators Program will provide a cohort of skilled trainers (Navigators) to the participating libraries. The Navigators will rotate through the 12 participant libraries, to provide individualized assistance to persons seeking employment, job training, or digital competence. The program will also provide training in computer-based applications; assistance with resumes and job searching; electronic learning aids and resources to teach and enhance digital literacy skills. Entrepreneurs seeking to launch their new businesses will also receive help from the Access Navigators, among other needs.

“We are ecstatic to launch the Access Navigators Program,” said Dr. Juliet Machie, Executive Director of the New Jersey Library Association. I am immensely grateful to the NJLA Executive Board, our Access Services Task Force, and our partners at the New Jersey State Library, for their support and investment in this program. We are hopeful that the Access Navigators program will establish New Jersey’s public libraries as destinations for the fulfillment of individual and community hopes and aspirations,” Machie said.

The Access Navigators Program is funded through the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds, received by the New Jersey State Library (NJSL), through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). The Access Navigators program is one of two adult literacy and opportunity focused pilot programs, enabled through the IMLS ARPA funds received by NJSL.

For additional information, please contact [email protected]